Smooth sailing to squalls

Our third day underway has been reminiscent of a good day sailing in my home waters of San Francesco Bay - a day of variety with a little of everything thrown in. On a good day on the bay, it is usual to experience the doldrums, fierce gusts, a mix of clouds and bright sunshine. Not to mention variable and commanding tidal currents!

The day started for me on the midnight to 3 a.m. watch with the Milky Way, southern stars, and a bright waning gibbous moon to light our passage.  The wind was steady and Falken cut through the swell with grace.  Heading down below at the end of the watch, I reflected on how fortunate I was to be here with a great crew and boat, steering by the Southern Cross on such a beautiful night. 

I was woken at about 4:30 a.m. to the sound of a reef being set and noticed the cooler, damper air and increased bustle of Falken pushing harder through more chaotic water.  A squall was coming by. Wedging myself into my bunk a bit more, I settled back to sleep in the knowledge that we were all in good hands. 

Waking shortly after dawn, I heard the iron sail pushing us forward in still air with the main up and the yankee furled.  Another squall rolled through soon after and brought back the Trades behind it, prompting another sail plan change to get us back to sailing. By this time, I decided I was missing the fun and fell out of my bunk to head into the cockpit.  

The morning brought more squalls and highly variable winds, as a settled low to the south, and squalls from the northeast battened down the usually reliable Trade winds. The morning was passed working to keep the boat progressing to course while enjoying the occasional heaven-sent shower, interspersed with warm weather to dry us out. The weather finally settled back into what we had expected with steady Trades and hot and sunny skies. Everyone missed the fresh cooling rain so much that the shower room was opened for the afternoon, and the crew celebrated the trip so far with a container of ice-cold water and plenty of snacking opportunities. 

Looking ahead, more variety is in store for us according to the forecast and also the timing of our arrival at the Tuomotos. However, we are all reveling in the place and the moment, assured that Falken and the staff crew will make this an adventure to remember, and that we — the crew — have been well instructed and have built the capability and confidence to make the most of this variety and adventure!